AF band member offers resiliency with free guitar lessons

JOINT BASE LANGLEY-EUSTIS, Va. , Aug. 8, 2018 —For people looking to learn guitar without a huge investment, one Airman may have an answer teaching free guitar lessons here, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 12-12:30 p.m., to help promote resiliency.

U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Daniel Santos, U.S. Air Force Heritage of America Band guitarist, began the group two months ago and says it’s a free class for all skill levels.

“I wanted to share my knowledge through guitar club,” said Santos. “My students learn how to play easy songs, read chord charts and sheet music.”

According to Santos, by participating in guitar club, service members and all other DoD ID card holders can cultivate interpersonal skills, teamwork and mentorship, which can make build resiliency to implement in day-to-day life.

“I see it as an outlet,” Santos said. “Most of the time you go to work, get home and watch television. But if you want to do something else and be creative, guitar is the perfect instrument for that, because you can take it anywhere with you.”

In line with the Comprehensive Airman Fitness model, Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force Kaleth O. Wright says resiliency initiatives are a top priority for the Air Force.

“A focus on resiliency ensures Airmen and their families are fully equipped with the necessary tools, support system and mentality to persevere through difficult situations while taking care of the mission, themselves and their families,” Wright said.

With Wrights words in mind, Santos says he hopes these sessions provide a small escape from the challenges of protecting our nation – one strum at a time.

“Being able to express yourself through music is part of being resilient,” Santos said. “I think that by taking a break and going to this club, you get to mingle and at the same time you’re learning something, you’re being creative and you’re broadening your network.”

For more information or course reservations, call (757) 764-6107, or e-mail daniel.santos.7@us.af.mil.

DISCLAIMER: This article was originally published at the Defense Video Imagery Distribution System Hub (www.didvshub.net). The appearance of U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) visual information does not imply or constitute DoD endorsement.